Tender policy checklist for UK public-sector bids
By the companypolicies.ai team, published by Spire Trade Advisors Ltd · Published · Last updated · 5 min read
In short
Before you bid, check you have current, signed versions of the core policies buyers commonly request, the sector-specific documents for your work, and, for major central government contracts, a Carbon Reduction Plan and social value commitments.
Core policies (most tenders)
- Health & Safety Policy: legally required in writing at five or more employees
- Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Policy
- GDPR & Data Protection Policy
- Modern Slavery Policy
- Environmental Policy
- Anti-Bribery & Corruption Policy
- Quality Management Policy
- Whistleblowing Policy
Service delivery and governance
Sector-specific
- Construction and maintenance: RAMS, Working at Height, Asbestos, COSHH
- Care, education and community: Safeguarding, Recruitment & DBS
- Mobile and site-based services: Lone Working, Drugs & Alcohol, Emergency Procedures
Major central government contracts
- Carbon Reduction Plan (PPN 006): above £5m a year
- Social Value Policy: see PPN 002 and PPN 026
Before you submit
- Every policy is in your company name, signed by a director and dated within the last 12 months.
- Named responsibilities match the people in your bid.
- Your answers and your policies say the same thing.
- You can show evidence that you follow them: training records, audits, registers.
Other documents buyers usually ask for
- Your Central Digital Platform share code (see how to register)
- Insurance certificates at the levels set by the buyer (employer's liability, public liability and, for advice or design work, professional indemnity)
- Up to three relevant contract examples with contactable referees
- Certificates the buyer names, such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, Cyber Essentials or an SSIP scheme, or equivalent evidence
- Your modern slavery statement link if your turnover is £36m or more
Get the full set
Not sure which of these apply to your bid? The free tender policy checker builds a personalised list in about a minute. All 39 policies, branded with your logo, are in the complete bundle, or browse the policy library. You can also try a free tailored Whistleblowing policy first.
Frequently asked questions
What documents do I need to submit a tender?
Usually your Central Digital Platform share code, the policies the buyer asks for, insurance details, contract examples and any certificates named in the conditions of participation, plus your answers to the quality and price questions. The procurement documents list exactly what is required.
Should every policy be signed by a director?
It is good practice and buyers often look for it: a named director's approval, a version number and a current review date show the policy is owned and maintained.
Can I use templates for tender policies?
Yes, as a starting point. Evaluators look for policies that reflect how you actually work, so tailor responsibilities, procedures and contacts to your business and review them before you approve them.
Related guides
Sources
- PA 2023 Procurement Specific Questionnaire template
- HSE: Preparing a health and safety policy
- PPN 006 (GOV.UK)
Written and reviewed by the companypolicies.ai team at Spire Trade Advisors Ltd, using the official sources listed above; last checked 2 October 2026. General information, not legal advice. Procurement rules and guidance change, and individual tenders set their own requirements; always check the procurement documents and current GOV.UK guidance.